Goncalves Saga: Will Al-Ahli Pay Up or Return the Star?
3 octobre 2025
Goncalves in Limbo as Payment Delays Spark Contract Talk
A major controversy has erupted in the latest hours around Brazilian winger Matheus Goncalves, who joined Al-Ahli from Flamengo for 8 million euros. The transfer was structured to be paid in three installments beginning in 2025.
According to reports, Flamengo has not yet received any portion of the fee, and the lack of payment could trigger a clause that allows the player to be recalled to Brazil.
Al-Ahli signed Goncalves for 8 million euros with the first installment due in 2025, to be paid in three annual installments. The Brazilian club has not received the initial payment, which was expected by September 30, and talks of a potential legal action have surfaced with an Oct 4 deadline looming.
Sources say the contract includes a clause permitting the deal to be canceled and the player returned to Flamengo if payments are delayed beyond a specified date.
The player’s agent, Juliano Bertolotti, has denied the reports, stating to the Saudi press that everything is progressing smoothly and there is no crisis between the clubs.
On the field, Goncalves has featured for Al-Ahli in a handful of appearances. The 20-year-old has played five matches across different competitions this season, totaling 295 minutes, with one goal, one assist, and a yellow card.
Looking ahead, Al-Ahli face a demanding October schedule: a Saudi league clash with Al-Shabab on Oct 17, a game against Al-Najm on Oct 23, and a meeting with Riyadh on Oct 30, plus a group-stage fixture in the Asian Champions League against Al-Gharafa on Oct 20. The Royals sit seventh in the league with eight points after two wins and two draws.
Fans have grown anxious over recent results, and there is internal pressure on the coach as the team aims to defend its continental and domestic ambitions. Goncalves will be expected to play a pivotal role as the calendar turns to a busy month.
Goncalves is still young and possesses a track record of rising through Flamengo’s ranks, which included recognition by major outlets in youth talent lists. If payment issues persist, though, the latest twist could overshadow his early contributions in Jeddah.
Punchline 1: In this transfer saga, the real cliffhanger isn’t the final whistle but whether the check clears before kickoff. Punchline 2: If money talks, Flamengo’s wallet must be whispering—quietly waiting for a dramatic sequel.”
